Nov 24, 2025

When should you eat your meals in winter?

Aanya Mehta

Eating During Winters

Winter increases appetite and slows digestion, making meal timing more important than ever. Eating at the right time helps maintain warmth, energy, and immunity throughout the season.

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Best Time To Have Breakfast (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM)

Your digestive fire is strongest in the morning during winters. A warm, nourishing breakfast like oats, porridge, eggs, or millet keeps energy stable.

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Mid Morning Snack (Around 11:00 AM)

If hungry, choose warming snacks like nuts, roasted chana, warm fruit, or soups. Avoid cold foods or smoothies that slow winter digestion.

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Lunch (12:00 PM – 2:00 PM)

Lunch should be your heaviest meal. Digestion peaks when the sun is strongest, making this the best time for nutrient dense, warm foods.

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Evening Snack (4:00 PM – 5:00 PM)

A light, warm snack like herbal tea, jaggery with nuts, roasted makhana, or soup helps maintain blood sugar and body warmth.

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Ideal Dinner Time (6:30 PM – 8:00 PM)

Eat dinner early to support easy digestion and better sleep. Opt for warm foods such as soups, dals, khichdi, or cooked vegetables.

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Before-Bed Option (9:00 PM – 9:30 PM)

If you feel cold or hungry, sip warm turmeric milk, nutmeg milk, or herbal tea to improve sleep and boost immunity.

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Winter Eating Tips

Prefer warm, cooked meals; add warming spices like ginger and cinnamon; sip warm water; and avoid chilled foods or drinks that reduce digestive strength.

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Subtle signs your body clock is not in sync